The zinc acts as an anti-corrosive medium to prevent rust on the sliding
surfaces of the spring leaves. It works the same as a galvanized
surface. I do not thing the intention was that it would act as a
lubricant but the friction coefficient between steel and zinc could well
be a bit lower than with steel on steel.
I feel the zinc is not really needed as long as you keep the spring
leaves well lubricated and rust free, but that of course means very
regular maintainance!!!! and we all service our grease nipples every few
thousand miles don't we, so it should be no problem.
Kees Oudesluijs
NL
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